Effect of Parity and Live Body Weight of She-Camel on Reproductive Performance, Calving Characteristics, and Blood Parameters during Post-Partum Period

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of parity order (PO) and live body weight (LBW) on reproductive, calving and blood parameters of Maghrabi She-camels during post-partum period in Egypt. Post-partum 28 she-camels were divided according to LBW into four categories {400-430 (n=7), >430-460 (n=7), >460-500 (n=6) and >500-560 (n=8) kg}, and according to parity to 1 st -2 nd (n=8), 4 th (n=7) and 5 th -6 th (n=9). Results showed that number of estrus cases/animal, post-partum 1 st estrus interval (PPFEI) and cervical length increased by increasing LBW >500 kg (P≥0.05). Cervical closure time (P≥0.05) and uterine involution (P<0.05) increased by increasing LBW >430 kg. Uterine horn thickness, uterine length, cervical diameter and plasma progesterone and estrogen were not affected significantly by LBW. Estrus cases (n)/animal, cervical closure time and uterine involution increased in multi-parous than in primi-parous (P≥0.05), while cervical length increased at 5-6 parity compared with 1-4 parity (P≥0.05). The PPFEI, uterine horn thickness, uterine length, and progesterone and estrogen concentrations showed inconsistent changes in different parities (P≥0.05). Placental weight with or without fluids and calf weight at birth were not affected by weight or parity. Concentration of total proteins and their fraction as well as albumin/globulin ratio in blood plasma was not affected by weight. Glucose level reduced (P<0.05), ALP activity decreased (P≥0.05) by increasing weight. In conclusion parity and live body weight showed inconsistent trend of changes on reproductive performance, calving performance and blood biochemicals and hormonal concentrations during post-partum period of maghrabian she-camel under the Egyptian condition.